Known Faults Database

Mercedes-Benz GLC problems, reliability and years to avoid

If you are considering buying a used Mercedes-Benz GLC, these are the common problems worth knowing about first. Our garage database tracks 2 known faults for this model, 1 of them rated high severity. Every one below is a repair bill a seller has good reason not to mention.

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Is the Mercedes-Benz GLC reliable?

The Mercedes-Benz GLC has 2 known faults in our database, 1 of them rated high severity. The most serious are electrics (the steering column clock spring breaks) and suspension (the front tyres crab, skip or judder across the road surface at low speed on full). None of them makes the car a bad buy on its own; the risk is a seller who knows and says nothing.

That is a count of the faults we hold, not a reliability score. Popular cars get written about more, and a newer generation has had less time to show its faults.

Which Mercedes-Benz GLC years should you avoid?

No year is a write-off on its own. What matters is which serious faults a given year and engine can have, and whether the car in front of you has had them fixed.

Years and engines with a serious known fault

2011 to 2017, All variants: the steering column clock spring breaks

Each one is set out in full below, with the symptoms, the typical mileage and a rough repair cost.

Generation 1 of 12 known faults · 15 owner reports · 7 good notes

Mercedes-Benz GLC X253 (2015 to 2022) problems

SteeringMedium severity📝 Editorial

The front tyres crab, skip or judder across the road surface at low speed on full or near-full lock, with a loud clunk that owners liken to hitting a kerb, and the outer edges of the front tyres wear fast. It is a steering geometry trait of right-hand-drive cars on large wheels, reported on the GLC and GLC Coupe from new and on the C43 AMG, and it is worse in cold weather. Mercedes at first said it was normal for the model, then offered GLC owners all-season tyres free of charge, and later offered replacement steering knuckles on right-hand-drive GLCs, though one owner was told the knuckle fix was not available for the GLC 43 or GLC 63 AMG. An ombudsman ruled that one owner was entitled to reject a GLC Coupe over it, although the dealer refused to take it back.

Typical symptoms

loud clunking or skipping from the front wheels on full lock when parking
front end hopping on tight roundabouts or when reversing on lock
outer edges of the front tyres worn well before the centre

Affected vehicles

Engines:: All (particularly AMG Line and 4Matic)
Typical mileage:: 0-50000 miles

22 more owner reports back this up

December 2019A 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC 220D 4-matic exhibited front wheel crabbing on full lock, causing severe outer edge tyre wear by 17,459 miles.
December 2019A Mercedes-Benz GLC63 AMG displayed front wheel crabbing during even slight turns, possibly due to its over-specified wheels and tyres.
September 2019A 2016 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC 43 4MATIC with 20-inch wheels juddered and crabbed on low speed and hard lock, damaging the owner's driveway.
December 2018A steering knuckle repair is now offered for right-hand drive Mercedes-Benz GLCs experiencing the front wheel crabbing problem.
December 2018A steering knuckle repair is now offered for right-hand drive Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupes experiencing the front wheel crabbing problem.
March 2018A GLC 250d with 40,000 miles experienced front wheels crabbing on lock, despite the owner otherwise enjoying the vehicle.
December 2017A 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC exhibited front wheel grabbing in cold weather conditions when turning.
October 2017A used GLC43 purchased from a Mercedes-Benz dealer exhibited the widely reported crabbing problem, with the dealer reluctant to change tyres.
March 2017Mercedes-Benz began providing all-season tyres without charge to GLC and GLC Coupe owners, aiming to resolve the front wheel crabbing issue.
March 2017A Mercedes-Benz GLC 250d Coupe with 20-inch Michelin Latitude tyres juddered only on very extreme steering lock.
March 2017Mercedes-Benz started offering all-season tyres free of charge to GLC and GLC Coupe owners, which largely addresses the crabbing problem.
February 2017A Mercedes-Benz GLC250 with 2,000 miles exhibited front wheel crabbing at low speeds when turning.
February 2017A GLC buyer successfully negotiated new winter tyres free of charge before purchasing the vehicle, likely to prevent the crabbing issue.
January 2017A C43 AMG experienced crabbing on less than full lock, similar to GLC models, possibly indicating a 4Matic centre differential issue.
January 2017A new GLC, delivered on 16 December 2016, exhibited crabbing, leading to a dispute with the dealer and Motor Ombudsman.
January 2017A Mercedes-Benz GLC43 AMG owner reported a frustrating visit to a dealer regarding the crabbing problem, which was dismissed as a comfort issue.
January 2017A GLC 43, picked up in November, experienced tyre skipping or crabbing when turning, which the dealer later dismissed as normal for 4x4s.
January 2017An Australian GLC 250d with 20-inch Pirelli runflats crabbed on turns, improving significantly after a four-wheel alignment at 9,000km.
December 2016A 2016 GLC Coupe 220d experienced crabbing when reversing, with the supplying dealer advising the owner to purchase winter tyres.
December 2016A 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC crabbed and made an awful noise on full lock, with the dealer suggesting winter tyres as a solution.
December 2016An AMG GLC 43 4MATIC Coupe juddered and jumped at low speeds with hard lock, especially in cold temperatures.
December 2016A Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe 220d crabbed in reverse, and the dealer advised the customer to pay for winter tyres.

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ElectricalHigh severity🏛️ Official recall

The steering column clock spring breaks and, with the steering airbag wiring insufficiently earthed, can short-circuit and set off the steering wheel airbag unexpectedly. DVSA covers it with seven recall campaigns launched between December 2017 and July 2018 (R/2017/282, R/2018/006, R/2018/055, R/2018/069, R/2018/098, R/2018/130 and R/2018/154), spanning the A-Class, B-Class, C-Class, CLA, E-Class, GLA and GLC built from June 2011 to July 2017. The largest single campaign covers 84,879 cars and the seven campaign totals add up to over 400,000. The work is free and has no time limit, but cars still change hands with it outstanding.

Rough guide

£0 (free safety recall)

Typical symptoms

Airbag warning light appearing on the dashboard
Unexpected airbag deployment

Affected vehicles

Engines:: All variants
Typical mileage:: All mileages miles

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What owners report on the X253

15 single reports, unconfirmed

One owner each, in their own words rewritten as a line, and not counted in our risk scoring. A fault joins the list above once a second report or an editorial source backs it.

Interior · October 2022The Artico leather on a 2017 GLC 350d driver's seat wore through to the backing fabric; Mercedes-Benz offered 51 per cent of the £400 repair cost.
Fuel system · January 2020A Mercedes-Benz GLC experienced the fuel pump cutting out during refuelling, making it slow to add petrol, likely due to a blocked carbon filter.
Interior · April 2019The Artico material on a 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC250d seat began to wear and detach; the dealer attributed it to a sharp object.
Electrics · May 2018A new Mercedes-Benz GLC220d suffered a loose engine compartment cable and blown fuse within 28 days, preventing the engine from starting.
Gearbox and clutch · February 2018A Mercedes-Benz GLC 250d suffered a rear driveline or driveshaft failure at 13,500 miles, causing a loud bang and grinding noise.
Electrics · October 2017A December 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC 220d battery drained overnight, possibly due to an interior light switch or the Command system.
Engine · July 2017A new Mercedes-Benz GLC 250d, purchased November 2016, developed a low speed engine hiccup, diagnosed as faulty piezo electric fuel injectors.
Engine · May 2017A new Mercedes GLC 250d Sport with 4,800 miles experienced occasional, severe hiccups when pulling away or accelerating from low speed.
Electrics · March 2017The Garmin satnav software in a November 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC could not be updated on a Mac computer, with no resolution from Mercedes or Garmin.
Suspension and steering · February 2017A Mercedes-Benz GLC 250 AMG required two new Pirelli runflat tyres at its first service at 7,745 miles, with a recommendation to replace all four.
General · February 2017New Mercedes-Benz GLC customers are asked to sign a waiver acknowledging "tyre skipping" as a characteristic, not a safety issue.
Suspension and steering · December 2016Mercedes-Benz has removed the runflat tyre option for the GLC, possibly due to their stiffness causing tyre hopping with the suspension.
Suspension and steering · November 2016A Mercedes GLC Coupe AMG Line model experienced juddering and jumping when turning, with the dealer suggesting winter tyres as a solution.
General · June 2016A Mercedes-Benz GLC bought new in early 2016 experienced multiple issues, including fuel pump failure, repeated air suspension failures, and front wheel crabbing.
Interior · April 2016A new Mercedes-Benz GLC delivered in February 2016 developed a rear rattle, a driver's seat squeak, and a "moaning" noise while moving.

What owners like about the X253

7 notes

The car offers superb ride quality, particularly when equipped with the optional adaptive dampers.
The cabin features a lovely design and exudes a high-quality feel throughout its construction.
The vehicle comes with very high levels of standard equipment, enhancing its overall value.
The four-cylinder diesel engine is strong, frugal, and quiet, contributing to an efficient driving experience.
The car provides a fantastic driving position and offers excellent forward visibility for the driver.
The cabin is spacious, providing ample room even for rear seat passengers to travel comfortably.
The vehicle offers hatchback practicality and a boot that is notably easy to load, enhancing convenience.

Sellers rarely admit these faults outright

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Mercedes-Benz GLC recalls

Recall work is done by the manufacturer, and GOV.UK says you will not usually have to pay for it. These are the 70 DVSA recalls for the GLC, newest first. They do not tell you whether this particular car has had the work: for that, put the registration into the free GOV.UK MOT history check, which shows a recall status where the manufacturer shares it, or ask a franchised dealer to check the VIN.

🏛️ September 2025Cars built October 2022 to July 2025

SRPC2512 - Bolting of Steering Coupling

Mercedes-Benz AG has determined that on certain C-Class (206 platform) GLC (254 platform) and EQE (295 platform) vehicles the bolting of the steering coupling might not meet specifications.

Put right by: As a remedy Mercedes-Benz AG via its Mercedes-Benz service partners will rework the bolting of the steering coupling on the affected vehicles.

DVSA R/2025/333661 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ July 2025Cars built February 2025 to February 2025

SRPC2508 - Mounting of Multi-Purpose Camera & Interior Mirror

Mercedes-Benz AG has determined that on certain GLE/GLS (167 platform) and GLC (254 platform) vehicles the bonding of the multi-purpose camera and/or the interior mirror on the windscreen might not meet specifications.

Put right by: As a precautionary measure Mercedes-Benz AG via its Mercedes-Benz service partners will replace the windscreen on the affected vehicles.

DVSA R/2025/21662 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ April 2025Cars built May 2023 to November 2024

SRPC2501 - Processor Starter/Generator

Mercedes-Benz has determined that on certain AMG GT Coupe (192 platform)S-Class (223 platform) SL (232 platform) GLC (254 platform) and AMG GT 4-doorsCoupe (290 platform) vehicles with hybrid powertrain the processor of the control unit of the high-voltage starter generator might experience sporadic overload.

Put right by: As a remedy Mercedes-Benz AG via its Mercedes-Benz service partners will update the software of the high-voltage starter generator on the affected vehicles.

DVSA R/2025/124134 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ December 2024Cars built February 2021 to April 2023

SRPC2419 Misfire Detection M264

The software of the engine control unit might not meet specifications regarding misfire detection.

Put right by: Mercedes-Benz AG via its Mercedes-Benz service partners will update the software of the engine control unit on the affected vehicles.

DVSA R/2024/4741,638 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ March 2024Cars built March 2023 to October 2023

SRPC2401 - System protection

On certain vehicles some 80A fuses installed might not meet requirements.

Put right by: Replace the respective main fuse boxes on the affected vehicles.

DVSA R/2024/1302,450 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ February 2024Cars built October 2015 to April 2017

On affected vehicles the panel located between the windshield and the panoramic sunroof might not have been bonded correctly during a prior service repair.

Put right by: Check the front fixed element of the panoramic sliding sunroof and replace if necessary.

DVSA R/2024/02445 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ January 2024Cars built April 2023 to April 2023

On affected vehicles the bolting of the high-pressure fuel pump might not meet specifications.

Put right by: Replace the high-pressure fuel pump.

DVSA R/2024/0131 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ December 2023Cars built September 2023 to September 2023

On affected vehicles the bonding of the front rear and fixed side windows might not meet specifications.

Put right by: Replace the windows.

DVSA R/2023/32814 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ November 2023Cars built July 2022 to December 2023

The socket for the towing device in the front crossmember might not meet specifications

On affected vehicles the socket for the front towing device might not meet specifications.

Put right by: Check the towing device and replace the front cross member if necessary.

DVSA R/2023/2912,110 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ November 2023Cars built June 2022 to September 2022

On affected vehicles the length of the transmission wiring harness might not meet specifications.

Put right by: Check transmission wiring harness routing and rework if necessary.

DVSA R/2023/2264 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ August 2023Cars built August 2021 to December 2022

On affected vehicles the fuel pump impeller might not meet specifications and may deform.

Put right by: Replace the fuel pump module.

DVSA R/2023/2232,225 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ July 2023Cars built March 2023 to March 2023

On affected vehicles the wheel and brake bleed bolts might not have been tightened with the required torque.

Put right by: Check the wheel and brake bleed bolts and tighten to the correct torque.

DVSA R/2023/1433 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ June 2023Cars built June 2022 to March 2023

On affected vehicles the stabilisation of the footwell cover in the area of the accelerator pedal might be insufficient.

Put right by: Rework the footwell cover.

DVSA R/2023/162820 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ February 2023Cars built May 2015 to January 2017

On affected vehicles the aluminium bolts of the steering gear could corrode and break due to the intrusion of moisture.

Put right by: Replace the steering gear mounting bolts on the affected vehicles with steel bolts. Should the bolts break or already be broken change the steering gear.

DVSA R/2023/02351,251 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ October 2022Cars built September 2022 to September 2022

The support of the windowbag in the area of the B-pillar might not meet specifications.

The support of the window airbag in the B-pillar might not meet specifications.

Put right by: Check the window airbag support and replace it if necessary

DVSA R/2022/2761 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ October 2022Cars built September 2022 to September 2022

The wiring harness at the b-pillar might be damaged.

The mounting of an acoustic pad on the B-pillar might not meet specifications.

Put right by: Remove the acoustic pads and check the seat belt retractors and replace if necessary.

DVSA R/2022/2961 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ August 2022Cars built May 2019 to June 2021

The routing of the transmission wiring harness might not meet specifications

The routing of the transmission wiring harness might not meet specifications.

Put right by: Check the transmission wiring harness routing on the affected vehicles and replace it if necessary.

DVSA R/2022/2381,482 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ May 2022Cars built August 2021 to September 2021

Certain mode 2 charging cables for charging at a hiousehold power socket might not meet specifications

Certain Mode 2 charging cables for charging at a household power socket might not meet specifications.

Put right by: Check the Mode 2 charging cable on the affected vehicles and replace it if necessary.

DVSA R/2022/04895 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ March 2022Cars built July 2018 to September 2019

A particle in the fuel rail might lead to a leak between the fuel rail and the injector

A particle in the fuel rail might lead to a leak between the fuel rail and the fuel injector.

Put right by: Replace the fuel rail and fuel injectors on the affected vehicles.

DVSA R/2022/06126 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ January 2022Cars built April 2017 to October 2021

Coolant pump might have a leakage between the vacuum system and the coolant circuit

On certain vehicles with a Diesel engine the coolant pump which is controlled by vacuum might have a leakage between the vacuum system and the coolant circuit.

Put right by: Update the software of the coolant pump and replace the electrical switch valve on the affected vehicles.

DVSA R/2021/43835,624 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ January 2022Cars built August 2020 to December 2020

The crankshaft might not meet specifications

On certain vehicles with a 4-cylinder Diesel engine the crankshaft might not meet specifications.

Put right by: Replace the engine on the affected vehicles.

DVSA R/2021/44623 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ December 2021Cars built January 2016 to January 2021

The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications

The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.

Put right by: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.

DVSA R/2021/10623 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ December 2021Cars built January 2016 to January 2021

The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications

The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.

Put right by: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.

DVSA R/2021/1076 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ December 2021Cars built January 2016 to January 2021

The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications

The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.

Put right by: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.

DVSA R/2021/13021 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ November 2021Cars built January 2016 to January 2021

The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications

The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.

Put right by: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.

DVSA R/2021/37650,390 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ September 2021Cars built January 2019 to March 2021

The belt tensioner arm may have been manufactured with borderline tolerance

The belt tensioner arm may have been manufactured with borderline tolerance.

Put right by: Replace the belt tensioner. Additionally check the v-ribbed belt on the affected vehicles and replace it if necessary.

DVSA R/2021/304427 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ September 2021Cars built August 2020 to September 2020

The locking mechanism for the electrical connector of the side crash sensors might not meet specifications

The locking mechanism for the electrical connector of the side crash sensors might not meet specifications.

Put right by: Check the side crash sensors in the doors on the affected vehicles and replace them if necessary.

DVSA R/2021/286129 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ August 2021Cars built July 2013 to October 2019

Vehicles with a panoramic sunroofthe polycarbonate panel may not have been bonded correctly during a prior service repair

The polycarbonate panel located between the windshield and the panoramic sunroof may not have been bonded correctly during a prior service repair.

Put right by: Remove the bonded panel and install a new polycarbonate panel if required.

DVSA R/2021/27461 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ May 2021Cars built January 2016 to January 2021

The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications

The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.

Put right by: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.

DVSA R/2021/110108,971 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ May 2021Cars built January 2016 to January 2021

The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications

The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.

Put right by: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.

DVSA R/2021/12086,604 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ May 2021Cars built January 2016 to January 2021

The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications

The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.

Put right by: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.

DVSA R/2021/11190,716 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ May 2021Cars built April 2016 to November 2020

The connection of the gas lines of the inertisation system might not meet specifications

The connection of the gas lines of the inertisation system might not meet specifications.

Put right by: Check and if necessary rework the gas lines of the inertisation system.

DVSA R/2021/12129,137 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ May 2021Cars built January 2016 to January 2021

The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications

The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.

Put right by: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.

DVSA R/2021/1287 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ May 2021Cars built January 2016 to January 2021

The emergency call system might not meet specifications

The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.

Put right by: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.

DVSA R/2021/1296 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ May 2021Cars built January 2016 to January 2021

The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications

The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.

Put right by: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.

DVSA R/2021/13181,267 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ May 2021Cars built January 2016 to January 2021

The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications

The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.

Put right by: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.

DVSA R/2021/13210,410 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ May 2021Cars built January 2016 to January 2021

The emergency call system might not meet specifications

The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.

Put right by: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.

DVSA R/2021/133106,665 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ May 2021Cars built January 2016 to January 2021

The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications

The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.

Put right by: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.

DVSA R/2021/134162,581 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ March 2021Cars built May 2016 to July 2020

The communication module may be deactivated

Put right by: Carry out a check of the configuration of the communication module on affected vehicles and if necessary activate the communication module.

DVSA R/2021/08224 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ March 2021Cars built February 2017 to March 2020

The software of certain communication modules may not meet specifications

The software of certain communication modules may not meet specifications.

Put right by: Carry out an update to the software of the communication module on affected vehicles.

DVSA R/2021/08336 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ March 2021Cars built January 2018 to January 2020

The screw connection of the power supply on the starter may not have been installed according to specification

The screw connection of the power supply on the starter might not have been installed according to specification.

Put right by: Check the screw connections of the starter on the affected vehicles and correct them if necessary.

DVSA R/2021/027944 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ December 2020Cars built December 2019 to March 2020

The wiring harness of the steering control unit may not have been manufactured to specification

The wiring harness of the steering control unit might not have been manufactured according to specification.

Put right by: Check the wiring harness of the steering control unit on the affected vehicles and replace it if necessary.

DVSA R/2020/3333,029 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ December 2020Cars built January 2018 to February 2020

The high voltage wiring harness shield may not permanently withstand the electrical loads that are induced under certain driving profiles

The shield for the high-voltage wiring harness may not permanently withstand the electrical loads that are induced under certain driving profiles

Put right by: Replace the high-voltage wiring harness on the affected vehicles

DVSA R/2020/3342,377 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ October 2020Cars built December 2019 to January 2020

An electrical contact inside the engine control unit may not meet the specification

An electrical contacting inside the engine control unit might not meet the specification

Put right by: Replace the engine control unit on the affected vehicles

DVSA R/2020/27737 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ October 2020Cars built April 2018 to October 2019

The software of the ESP control unit may not meet the specifications

The software of the ESP control unit might not meet the specifications.

Put right by: Update the software for the ESP control unit on the affected vehicles.

DVSA R/2020/2391,061 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ October 2020Cars built March 2017 to September 2018

THE EMERGENCY CALL SYSTEM (eCall) DOES NOT MEET THE SPECIFICATION

On affected vehicles the software of the communication module for the emergency call system does not meet the specification

Put right by: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system

DVSA R/2020/2363,127 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ October 2020Cars built November 2011 to May 2018

Engine control unit software to be updated

Improve the vehicle emissions via software updates.

Put right by: Update the relevant control units software and if necessary replace the NOx sensors.

DVSA R/2020/243994 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ August 2020Cars built June 2018 to March 2020

The data documenting the correct mounting of the turbocharger oil feed as well as the oil return line may be missing

The HV battery pack can overheat and result in the venting of hot gas which can ignite vehicle components or in extreme cases the entire vehicle.

Put right by: To prevent a vehicle fire the vehicles should not be charged using the external charging cable and the vehicles should only be driven using the default Auto EV mode only

DVSA R/2020/225124 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ August 2020Cars built January 2020 to March 2020

The left rear seat backrest lock may not meet specifications

The left rear seat backrest lock might not meet the specifications

Put right by: Replace the left rear seat backrest lock on the affected vehicles.

DVSA R/2020/1971,179 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ August 2020Cars built June 2018 to October 2018

Certain front seat belt buckles may not have been manufactured according to specification

A correctly fastened seat belt could be detected as not fastened impairing the restraint system

Put right by: Check the relevant seat belt buckles in the affected vehicles and replace if necessary

DVSA R/2019/37215,652 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ July 2020Cars built April 2019 to July 2019

Incorrect starter wiring harness and holder for fixing the exhaust system may be installed

An incorrect starter wiring harness and a holder for fixing the exhaust system could be installed.

Put right by: Replace the starter wiring harness and the holder for fixing the exhaust on the affected vehicles.

DVSA R/2020/098477 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ November 2019Cars built August 2018 to September 2019

The four locknuts securing the air bag might be missing

Certain driver airbag modules might not be bolted onto the base plate.

Put right by: Check the driver airbag on the affected vehicles and replace it if necessary.

DVSA R/2019/3372,345 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ September 2019Cars built February 2019 to March 2019

The crankshaft may exhibit surface damages

The durability of the crankshaft might be impaired.

Put right by: Replace the engine on affected vehicles.

DVSA R/2019/25335 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ May 2019Cars built July 2018 to August 2018

An internal sensor within the electric power steering unit may not have been manufactured to specifications

An internal sensor within the electric power steering unit might not have been manufactured according to specifications.

Put right by: The affected vehicles are to have the steering unit replaced.

DVSA R/2019/04332 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ March 2019Cars built August 2017 to October 2018

The status of the front passenger airbags displayed in the centre console might not be indicated correctly

The status of the front passenger airbags displayed in the centre console might not be indicated correctly.

Put right by: The affected vehicles head unit software will be updated

DVSA R/2019/00736,643 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ October 2018Cars built December 2013 to May 2018

To improve emissions of the affected vehicles.certain calibrations of functionalities must be changed in the engine management

Improve the vehicle emissions via software updates.

Put right by: Update the diesel engine control unit software and add a supplementary booklet for the operator's manual

DVSA R/2018/26615,692 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ August 2018Cars built January 2018 to March 2018

Driver's airbag gas generator housing failure during deployment

On affected vehicles it has been determined that drivers airbags with potentially faulty gas generator housing material may have been installed in vehicles of model series 156 176 246 205 238 & 253. If the material of the gas generator housing fails during airbag deployment in the event of a crash the airbag system would possibly no longer have a restraint effect. In addition separating parts could enter the passenger compartment. This could lead to an increased risk of injury.

Put right by: On affected vehicles replace the drivers airbag

DVSA R/2018/168421 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ June 2018Cars built November 2011 to July 2017

Electrical wiring in steering assembly may be insufficiently grounded

The steering column clock spring may break. This will cause warning messages to illuminate in the instrument cluster but in extreme instances it may cause the driver's airbag to deploy.

Put right by: Affected vehicles will be recalled to establish sufficient grounding of the steering components

DVSA R/2018/13078,608 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ June 2018

Airbag control unit connection may not be manufactured to specification

The connector pins of the occupant classification system to the airbag control unit might have been manufactured outside specification. After a period of time this may cause decativation of the passnger airbag.

Put right by: On affected vehicles replace the connector pins of the occupant classification system.

DVSA R/2018/121100 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ May 2018Cars built November 2011 to July 2017

Steering components may be insufficiently grounded

It has been determined that the steering airbag electrical components are insufficiently grounded. Failure of the steering column module clock spring could result in an inadvertent deployment of the driver airbag which may cause risk of injury to the driver and an increased risk of a potential collision.

Put right by: On affected vehicles the manufacturer will fit a contact bridge to the outer race of the steering column top bearing which will provide correct grounding.

DVSA R/2018/09874,329 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ April 2018Cars built November 2011 to July 2017

Electrical wiring in steering assembly may be insufficiently grounded

The steering column clock spring may break. This will cause warning messages to illuminate in the instrument cluster but in extreme instances it may cause the driver's airbag to deploy.

Put right by: Affected vehicles will be recalled to establish sufficient grounding of the steering components.

DVSA R/2018/05551,528 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ April 2018Cars built November 2011 to July 2017

Electrical wiring in steering assembly may be insufficiently grounded

The steering column clock spring may break. This will cause warning messages to illuminate in the instrument cluster but in extreme instances it may cause the driver's airbag to deploy.

Put right by: Affected vehicles will be recalled to establish sufficient grounding of the steering components.

DVSA R/2018/06967,027 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ February 2018

Bonding of the windshield may be inadequate

The bonding of the windshield in the lower area may not correspond to the specification. During a collision the bonding may fail and the windscreen may detach. This could have an adverse affect on the effectiveness of the passenger airbag.

Put right by: On affected vehicles check bonding and if necessary replace windscreen.

DVSA R/2018/0462 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ February 2018Cars built April 2016 to March 2017

Front seat belt tensioners may not function

The front seatbelt pre-tensioner ignitors may not perform as expected. This could increase the risk of injury to the seat occupants. The lock function of the seatbelts is not impaired.

Put right by: On affected vehicles replace seatbelts with quality assured units.

DVSA R/2018/010296 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ December 2017Cars built November 2011 to July 2017

Electrical wiring in steering assembly may be insufficiently grounded

The steering column clock spring may break. This will cause warning messages to illuminate in the instrument cluster but in extreme instances it may cause the driver's airbag to deploy.

Put right by: Affected vehicles will be recalled to establish sufficient grounding of the steering components.

DVSA R/2017/28246,093 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ November 2017

Front and side plastic covers of the panoramic sunroof may not be bonded to specification

The bonding retaining front and side plastic covers on the sunroof may not meet specification. As a result these could detach whilst the vehicle is in motion.

Put right by: On affected vehicles check trims and where necessary re-bond trims.

DVSA R/2017/31510 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ October 2017Cars built April 2016 to March 2017

Right front seat belt pre-tensioner may not meet specification

The right front seat belt pretensioner may not conform to specification. This may adversely affect it's operation in the event of an accident.

Put right by: Replace the pretensioner on affected vehicles.

DVSA R/2017/253135 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ September 2017Cars built April 2016 to March 2017

Left front seat belt pre-tensioner may not meet specification

The propellant mix in certain seatbelt pre-tensioners ignitors may be incorrect. If the front seatbelt pre-tensioners are deployed the lock function of the pre-tensioners cannot be guaranteed.

Put right by: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and replace the front seatbelts that are likely to be affected.

DVSA R/2017/14778 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ June 2017Cars built February 2014 to February 2017

Starting current limiter may overload

Where the car incurs severe engine damage resulting in the engine failing to turn over (engine seizure) and if the driver repeatedly attempts to start the engine despite the engine not cranking the very high electrical current could lead to overheating of the starting current limiter and the potential for a fire.

Put right by: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and install an additional fuse in the electrical line to the starter.

DVSA R/2017/09674,444 vehicles affected in the UK

🏛️ April 2017Cars built January 2004 to March 2017

Faulty control unit may cause vehicle to perform outside specification

Where a control unit coding was updated in a workshop between 3 December 2016 and 5 December 2016 the coding may not correspond to the specification and may trigger unplanned action in the vehicle. The safety and emissions systems may not react as design intent.

Put right by: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and update the software in the corresponding control units.

DVSA R/2017/12442 vehicles affected in the UK

Recall data published by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency under the Open Government Licence v3.0. A recall listed here may not apply to every car of this model: the build dates and the registration check are what decide it.

Mercedes-Benz GLC timing chain, and service intervals

A timing chain has no change interval, which is not the same as lasting for ever. Listen for it on a used GLC, and check the oil has been changed on time. These are the figures UK specialists work to.

Automatic gearbox oil

7G-TRONIC, 722.9, 7 SPEED

40,000 miles or 4 years, whichever comes first

Mercedes initially claimed 'filled for life', which specialists call marketing over engineering. The recommendation is a fluid and filter change every 40,000 miles to prevent conductor plate failure, a GBP 800-1,200 repair. Some sources suggest 60,000 miles, so the shorter figure is recorded.

Automatic gearbox oil

9G-TRONIC, 725.0, 9 SPEED

60,000 miles or 6 years, whichever comes first

The published figure for the 725.0 is six years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first. Other sources give the first factory change as roughly 60,000 km (about 37,000 miles) or 6 years, and forum consensus favours servicing at 40,000 miles, so treat 60,000 as the outer limit rather than a target.

Timing chainChain

OM654, W213, W205, W206, 2.0 D

No fixed replacement interval

Chain driven and generally more robust than the OM651 it replaced, but tensioner and guide wear is documented. No fixed interval; specialists advise checking the chain at 100,000-150,000 km (roughly 60,000-90,000 miles) if it rattles. A rattle on cold start is the warning sign.

Always confirm against the vehicle handbook. Intervals vary by engine, and several manufacturers revised theirs after failures in service.

Repair costs are typical UK ranges, not quotes. Actual cost depends on condition and garage.Data last verified: September 2026

Mercedes-Benz GLC buying questions

Which Mercedes-Benz GLC years should I avoid?

No Mercedes-Benz GLC year is a write-off, but the X253 (2015 to 2022) carries the most serious faults: electrics. Year matters less than whether the specific car has had the known fixes, so check the history for them.

What should I check when viewing a used Mercedes-Benz GLC?

Ask the seller about the electrics and suspension faults on this page and whether they have been fixed, with invoices. On the test drive watch for airbag warning light appearing on the dashboard and loud clunking or skipping from the front wheels on full lock when parking. Read the MOT history for repeat advisories, then paste the advert into the free check, which reads it against its known faults before you travel. Check a Mercedes-Benz GLC advert →

Are there any recalls on the Mercedes-Benz GLC?

The DVSA lists 70 safety recalls for the Mercedes-Benz GLC issued between 2017 and 2025. The most recent, from September 2025, is "SRPC2512 - Bolting of Steering Coupling". Recall work is done by the manufacturer, and GOV.UK says you will not usually have to pay for it. This list is by model, so it cannot tell you whether one particular car has had the work: the free GOV.UK MOT history check shows a recall status from the registration where the manufacturer shares it, and a franchised dealer can check the VIN.

What is the real MPG of a Mercedes-Benz GLC?

Owners report 38.1 mpg on average across the Mercedes-Benz GLC engines with data, about 88% of the official combined figure. The gap between official and real-world economy varies a lot by engine, so the Real MPG page lists every engine and generation separately, from 430 owner submissions. Mercedes-Benz GLC Real MPG by engine →

Looking at a Mercedes-Benz GLC right now? Check the advert before you go and see it.

Where this Mercedes-Benz GLC fault data comes from

If you used to check the Honest John “Good & Bad” section before the site closed in 2026, this page is where that information now lives. We rebuilt the Mercedes-Benz GLC owner-report history from the archived Honest John dataset, added our own research, specialist and owner-club sources and DVSA recall data, and we keep it free. Each fault above is badged with its source. The same data feeds our free advert check, which reads a listing against every known fault for the exact engine and year.

CarAdCheck is not affiliated with Honest John or Volkswagen Financial Services. What happened to Honest John, and where each feature lives now.

Before you go and see it

Knowing what a Mercedes-Benz GLC goes wrong with is half of it. The rest is reading the advert and checking the car's history before you hand any money over.

How to haggle for a used car: negotiate the price with what its records show13 min read HPI check vs carVertical: which is better, and our pick for a UK car9 min read MOT advisories explained: how to check them, and which ones should worry you12 min read

All buyer's guides →

Other Mercedes-Benz models

E-Class25 known faults C-Class23 known faults A-Class13 known faults SLK7 known faults